Mrs. Estes's 4th Grade Class

4^th Grade Reading Celebration Contract (2^nd quarter)

 Your reading requirement for the second nine weeks is to choose one of the following.

____   I am choosing to complete 4 different reading projects on the following book genres:  biography, chapter book, non-fiction, and free choice.  These books must be on my STAR reading level.  I will follow the rubric on what is required for each project.  I must earn at least 15/20 points to pass the project.  Making a presentation of the project is included in the grade.  My parents can advise me on the projects, but I must complete the project in my own handwriting.  Two of these projects will be due by Friday, November 13.  The deadline for all projects is Friday, December 11. 

____   I am choosing to read 6 books on my STAR reading level.  I must read at least one biography, one chapter book, and one non-fiction book.  I will log in my books and grade earned.  I must maintain an average of 90 percent or higher.  No presentations are necessary.  Three books must be read and tested on by Friday, November 13.  All books must be read and tested on by Friday, December 11. 

 Please make sure that your child is continuing to work toward his/her goal in order to make it to the Polar Express Reading Celebration.

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year and the fourth grade! I hope everyone had a very relaxing summer and are ready for the exciting year ahead.  I am thrilled about teaching and getting to know your child this year! I am also looking forward to being a part of his or her learning experience.  The fourth grade will provide us with many new challenges. 

            I will do my best to keep you informed about your child’s progress, both academically and socially.  You will be able to check your child’s grades online and they will be updated weekly.  Graded papers will be sent home every Wednesday in your child’s Graded Paper Folder.  Please sign the entire package and return to me. 

            My goal is to create an environment that is stimulating and safe for your child.  This includes assisting children in making the right behavioral choices.  In the fourth grade, every child is responsible for their own behavior.  The classroom rules will be discussed and posted at all times.  Each child will be able to keep track of his or her personal behavior by use of a behavior chart.  Behavior will be noted in your child’s planner.  Please praise any good behavior and discuss how your child might improve any poor choices.  The fourth grade discipline plan is based on these easy to follow rules:The students will be asked to flip their cards for infractions of these rules.  

1.      Listen and follow directions the first time they are given.

2.      Sit, walk, or stand in a quiet and orderly manner.

3.      Keep hands and feet to yourself at all times.

4.      Use respectful language.

5.      Respect your property and the property of others.

The consequences are as follows:

Green - Good Day, Yellow - Warning, Orange - No Recess, Red - No Recess, Silent Lunch, and Note Home to Parents, Blue - Office Referral, No Recess, Silent Lunch, and Note Home to Parents

Rewards will consist of choosing from the Treasure Box, stickers, coupons, and special privileges.         

             Homework is given most nights Monday through Thursday.  Your child will practice what he or she has learned in class. The assignment will be written in your child’s planner which is kept in their binder.  Please initial every night.  If your child’s planner isn’t signed two or more times in a nine weeks, they will lose recess.  Also, please help your child be responsible by having them complete and pack his or her assignment in the evening.  If homework is not completed, your child will complete their assignment during recess. 

            Regular school attendance is critical to the learning process.  When your child misses school, he or she misses valuable instructional time.  Please send a written note of explanation when your child is absent.  Work must be made up. 

            Fourth grade will be a challenging year.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if there is a problem or if you are concerned (896-6309).  I will be happy to set up an afternoon conference or talk to you on the phone.  You may e-mail me at nicole.estes@gulfportschools.org.  I check my e-mail daily.  It is important for us to keep the lines of communication open.  Once again, I am looking forward to getting to know you and your child.